Interview: Meet the Cast of ‘Loves and Hours’ at Laurel Mill Playhouse. Part 6: Jen Sizer

In part six of a series of interviews with the cast of Loves and Hours at Laurel Mill Playhouse, meet Jen Sizer.

Please introduce yourself and tell our readers where they may have seen you perform on the stage before. What roles did you play in these shows?

Jen Sizer. Photo courtesy of Laurel Mill Playhouse.

My name is Jen Sizer. I have been on stage at Laurel Mill Playhouse (LMP) as Templeton in Charlotte’s Web, multiple roles in 39 Steps, and most recently as Mr. Collins in Pride and Prejudice.

Why did you want to be part of the cast of Loves and Hours? I have never heard of this play before. Had you known about it before? And what intrigued you about the play?

I heard that Daniel was a great director to work with. I read the play and thought it was original, funny, and still relevant to relationships, love and family today.

Who do you play in the show? How do you relate to him or her? What traits do you share? Does this character remind you of a similar character that you have played before?

I have cameo roles in this play. I play the Altar Boy…which I can relate to having grown up Catholic and spending more time watching the Altar Boys perform their rituals and try to remain stoic than listening to the sermons. I also play a server…which, like many of us, I performed that role in real life in my early twenties. I can relate to walking in on awkward situations at a table, and trying to blend into the background.

What is Loves and Hours about from the point of view of your character?

For my characters, the entire play is irrelevant to my life. These major life events for the main characters are just forgettable moments in my characters’ day to day routine. We are all just extras in someone else’s life story.

What challenges have you had preparing for the role, and how did Director Daniel Douek help you through these challenges? What was the best advice he gave you on how to play your role?

I haven’t had challenges with these roles. The scene changes are the hardest part.

What is your favorite line or lines that your character says, and what is your favorite line that someone else says in the show?

Favorite line that I say: “Bark Bark! Barrrrooooo!!! Arf! Arf!”

Favorite line that someone else says: “So is licking your balls”

What does Loves and Hours have to say to today’s audiences?

Take time to look around and see what is happening in your life. Get to know the people you love and don’t take them for granted. Work through your problems before they become seemingly insurmountable. Wake Up! Enjoy your life…and if you are unhappy, you can always make changes to improve your situation. It’s your story.

If you could change what happens to your character – what would you like to see happening to your character at the end of the play?

The Altar Boy leaves the wedding, goes to the baseball game he wants to be at, and hits a homer. And Dan and Julia leave a HUGE tip for the server for dealing with Anne’s shenanigans.

Why should local theatergoers come and see Loves and Hours?

It’s funny! It’s a little-known show that really is enjoyable. You’ll feel a little nostalgia for the 90’s, and you will definitely relate to at least one of the characters. There is a wide variety of human emotion and behavior in this show. It’s light hearted, but deals with some serious issues. What a great way to spend a couple hours on a cold winter day!

What’s next for you on the stage?

I will be directing a full length show at LMP, which will be produced in March. I directed a series of one acts, Silver Linings, in November, and cannot wait to delve into a full show. Directing is my first love in the theater.

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About Joel Markowitz

Joel Markowitz is the Publisher and Editor of DCMetroTheaterArts. He founded the site with his brother Bruce to help promote the vast riches of theatre and the arts in the DC Metro area that includes Maryland, Virginia, and DC theater and music venues, universities, schools, Children's theaters, professional, and community theatres. Joel is an advocate for promoting the 'stars of the future' in his popular 'Scene Stealers' articles. He wrote a column for 5 years called ‘Theatre Schmooze’ and recorded podcast interviews for DC Theatre Scene. His work can also be seen and read on BroadwayStars. Joel also wrote a monthly preview of what was about to open in DC area theatres for BroadwayWorld. He is an avid film and theater goer, and a suffering Buffalo Bills and Sabres fan. Joel was a regular guest on 'The Lunch and Judy Show' radio program starring Judy Stadt in NYC. Joel founded The Ushers Theatre Going Group in the DC area in 1990, which had a 25-year run when it took its final curtain call last year. Joel is a proud member of The American Critics Association.